If Kieran McKenna decides to depart for Brighton, Rob Edwards, the manager of Luton Town, could be a contender to take over as head coach of Ipswich Town.
Under McKenna’s direction, the Tractor Boys have had an incredible few years; in his first full season in command, the Northern Irishman guided the team to promotion from League One.
Incredibly, Ipswich achieved another promotion after that, finishing second in the Championship and earning a spot back in the Premier League with an incredible 96 points.
That has, of course, drawn notice from other quarters. According to certain rumors, Manchester United is reportedly considering firing Erik ten Hag
, and they have their eye on him.
But maybe of greater worry is the announcement that Brighton will be searching for a new manager, following the announcement that Roberto De Zerbi will be departing following Sunday’s season-ending match.
McKenna is regarded as a strong candidate to replace the Italian and is well-liked by the Seagulls.
Ipswich Town consider Kieran McKenna replacements
Even though the Suffolk side will be desperate to retain their head coach after the outstanding work he has done over the years, this news could force them to look for alternatives.
And, the Telegraph has stated that Edwards could be in line to take over if McKenna departs Portman Road.
The 41-year-old developed a good reputation as a coach after leading Forest Green to promotion from League Two in his first job, before he left for Watford. But, like many at Vicarage Road, he wasn’t given much time.
That turned out to be a mistake though, as he would join their bitter rivals Luton, and the Hatters won promotion to the Premier League after coming through the play-offs.
Operating on a ridiculously low budget compared to their rivals, Luton have been competitive in the top division this season, but they are set to be relegated.
They go into the final day three points behind Nottingham Forest, but a goal difference that is 12 worse than the Reds means they are effectively down.
Nevertheless, Edwards has still earned plaudits for his managerial ability, and he has had to contend with a lengthy injury list that has impacted Luton’s chances of survival.
Ipswich Town are right to plan ahead
This is obviously the news that Ipswich fans were dreading, but there’s no guarantee at all that McKenna will leave, and he will recognise that he is at a great club who gave him his big break in management, whilst he has a great bond with those who run the club.
However, this is the cost of playing football. Thus, the team is correct to start looking for replacements, and Edwards seems like a good fit.
Similar to McKenna, he is a youthful, aspirational coach, and despite Luton’s relegation, the majority of observers believe he has done a commendable job of keeping them competitive, given how restricted his resources are at this level.
Thus, it will be interesting to watch how this plays out. Ipswich, who will have a lot of work to do on the team this summer, will definitely want a speedy settlement.
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